An Interview with Model and Performer, Katie Kadaver

KK: My favorite horror movie is The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Part 2

HMF: How long have you been into Horror movies?

KK: I’ve been into horror off and on since childhood. My mom first started showing me the movies she was into like The Birds, The Shining, It, Cujo, etc. She was big into Stephen King in those days. 80s slasher flicks scared the crap out of me as a kid, which is funny because they’re my favorite type of horror film now. U had to revisit them all in adulthood, to really appreciate them for their genius.

I enjoyed films like Halloween and Scream, as a teenager and later turned my interest to horror television shows like True Blood, Dexter, The Walking Dead and American Horror Story. I didn’t really start getting into foreign horror films until the last few years. There’s obviously the great Italian horror films from the likes of Argento and Fulci, but also some other great films from Australia and New Zealand, that I’ve liked. I’m still not a huge fan of newer Hollywood horror films, but I try to give them a chance.

HMF: You’ve been attending conventions for years now. Every time I see a photo of you from one of these conventions you’ve got the most amazing makeup. Where does the inspiration for these makeups come from? 

KK: I draw inspiration for my makeup looks from a lot of different places… Sometimes I see a look someone else has done that I like and I’m inspired to do my own take on it. Other times I draw inspiration from horror films and other horror art and imagery. I’ve been following and creating macabre art my entire life, so there are always ideas pouring in for me. It’s sometimes hard to pinpoint where they come from.

HMF: What has been your favorite memory from attending the conventions?

KK: It seems like every time I attend a convention, I make memories more exciting than the last. I think my all-time favorite memory has to be the time I met Elvira and took a picture with her. After the picture I mentioned what an honor it was, for my boobs to be next to her boobs. She said and I quote, “Honey, if this was a boob-off, you’d win!” I was pretty sure that at that moment, I could have died a happy woman.

HMF: What types of modeling do you do?

KK: The modeling I do is creative and alternative in style. I work closely and collaborate with my photographer, to create unique images that blend classic sex appeal with edgy macabre images. I do some modeling for band merch and promotion, as well.

HMF: Are you looking for people to work with in the modeling world right now?

KK: I’m definitely open to working with others in the modeling world. I have a unique style that can be utilized in so many different ways. I’m also eager to try and experience new things. It’s how I grow as an artist.

HMF: You recently got into performing burlesque. Do you incorporate your love of horror into your routines?

KK: I absolutely do. Horror is such an integral part of my creative style, that it can’t help but be woven into all of creative outlets. So far I’ve done one horror act and one heavy metal act. I have another Horror themed act planned for October.

HMF: How has the burlesque community reacted to you?

KK: I’ve been networking with other performers in the state of Wisconsin and throughout the entire country, to spread my wings a bit and make connections in the community. The feedback I’ve gotten on my performances and the support I’ve gotten, after reaching out in the local community, has been wonderful. It has also solidified my decision to become an independent performer and perform as a guest with many different troupes. I feel this will be a great way for me to find the people in the burlesque community who share my core values and creative vision.

HMF: Aside from art, modeling and burlesque what other aspects of your life touch the macabre?

KK: I’d definitely say that my style is directly influenced by the macabre. The way I put myself together is a form or artistic expression for me, so if course my macabre tastes are reflected in that.

HMF: Finally, what can we expect from Katie Kadaver moving forward?

KK: Moving forward you can expect more creative endeavors from me, including another photo shoot before the end of the summer, a solo burlesque performance this fall and a continued efforts to create things that bring me joy. I’ve been collecting bits and pieces to make myself a few new vests, just as soon as I’m able to finish my current client piece. I also have plans to attend more horror conventions this year, as well as an appearance at Wizard World as a Tromette!

Once again, I want to thank Katie for taking the time to talk with us. We will keep following her career and hopefully one day she will sit down and talk with us again!